Dunsborough: Between Vineyards and Ocean SceneryDunsborough is an up-and-coming holiday destination in Western Australia, 250 km from Perth. The town, at the northern edge of the Margaret River wine region, has recently won several of the stateâs top tourism awards. Dunsborough boasts an enviable location, only a short distance from the coast and just a hop, skip and a jump for world-class wineries. Whether you wish to relax on the beach, hike for miles or are looking to keep the kids entertained, you wonât have to go far. In spite of its increasing notoriety, the town of Dunsborough still retains a country village atmosphere, with quaint holiday cottages available for short term rental.Dunsboroughâs Bays and BeachesDunsborough is a short distance from three north facing bays, which combine national park scenery and waterfront action. Geographe Bayâs calm waters are favoured by swimmers. From this Bay, you will also be privy to uninterrupted ocean panoramas. If you would prefer to spend your holidays surfing, head to Bunker Bay, with its more turbulent waters. Families will also enjoy Bunker Bayâs spacious sandy beaches, with rock formations at both ends creating a natural playground for the kids. Meelop Bay is part of Meelop Regional Park, with its endless walking tracks along the coastline and further inland. Depending on the path you choose, you might end up at scenic lookouts offering sweeping coastal views, wandering through fields of wildflowers or even strolling along untouched beaches.Further Out on the WaterTravellers interested in water sports have a wide array of options in Dunsborough. Divers will be able to explore the purposefully shipwrecked HMAS Swan. If youâre an advanced diver, head out to the shipwreck by yourself. If you have less experience or would prefer some guidance, you can sign up for a tour and go with a group. If you donât wish to dive, hire snorkelling gear for a glimpse at the ocean floorâs brightly coloured coral formations. Dunsboroughâs waters are also popular with fishermen, so it wonât be difficult to hire a boat for the day and do some deep sea fishing. Meanwhile, nature lovers might prefer a whale watching cruise.Fine Wine and Craft Beer near DunsboroughUsing Dunsborough as a holiday base, you can go for day trips to Margaret Riverâs wineries. Venture over your own, visiting the vineyards and cellar doors that interest you most, or participate in a winery tour. One advantage of traveling by yourself is that you can choose the winery restaurant you would like to eat at, where you can sample local fare paired with wine produced onsite. Many tours leave from Dunsborough and will take you to approximately five different cellar doors. Local guides will also share the ins and outs of Margaret River winemaking with you. Wine isnât the only alcohol produced in the region. Various craft beer tastings provide an alternative to wine culture.Day Trips to Cape NaturalisteIf youâre an avid walker or simply wish to immerse yourself in nature, spend some time at Cape Naturaliste, which boasts a network of trails of all skill levels, including a 1 km long timber boardwalk. One of the most popular Cape Naturaliste trails is the Whale Loop Walk. Donât forget to bring your binoculars to better spot the large marine mammals! Some of the paths hugging the headland are wheelchair-accessible and easy for parents to navigate with strollers. Soak up local history and get acquainted with the regionâs maritime heritage at Cape Naturaliste lighthouse, built in 1903. Guided tours are available. While youâre here, visit Climbing Naturaliste, an indoor rock climbing centre with walls of varying difficulties.Getting to DunsboroughThe quickest way to get to Dunsborough from Perth is to drive. You can also take a direct coach from the WA capital. Another option is to take a combination of trains and buses. By car, you will reach Dunsborough in approximately 2.5 hours. If you opt for public transport, however, travel time doubles.Â For more travel information on Dunsborough, read our article on Things to do in Dunsborough.